All right, folks. This is different!
If you, the listener, are expecting some straight up rock and roll, or even something close to jazz/blues such as some of the new young bands are incorporating into indie music, you will be surprised when you fire up "Lemon Hill" (Lemon Hill Marcata Records 2007).
This sound experience has one thing that fits with most of the other music you are used to – a fairly steady beat. Beyond that, it’s, well…..I don’t know. Check it out.
"Red River" a 2007 tune, is built on the same style of treble-heavy guitar as "Lemon Hill" but the vocal on "Red River" comes through as a Bob Dylan sound. Actually, the front man from The Walkmen probably sings a bit better than the legend, just enough. It’s just right, though.
These are relatively short songs, nothing like the 1960s extended versions of rock and nowhere near what some of the growl/screamo bands are attempting.
"Louisiana" (A Hundred Miles Off 2006 Record Collection) has a softer ballad feel and makes a case for The Walkmen being a listenable group. In the end, New York does spawn some fine musical art. This tune includes some horn and keyboard treatment that will please the aficionado. Try this as well. "All Hands and the Cook" from the same collection, is recommended for those who are truly looking for something that stretches the band’s limits and the listener’s limits.
The Walkmen will be at the Uptown Theater in Kansas City, at the Capitol Theater in Davenport, Iowa, then at The Vic in Chicago. The tour moves on to Cincinnati, Mt. Clemens, Michigan and then into Pennsylvania. I, for one, hope to check this band out.
The Walkmen on MySpace
Tags: music, The Walkmen, independent music, indie music, indie